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Our top choices for Kota Kinabalu luxury hotels

Gayana Marine Resort

Gayana Marine Resort
5.0 star property
Gaya Island
8.4 out of 10, Very good, (508 reviews)
  • cleanliness
    Serene boardwalk retreat with attentive staff. Gayana Marine Resort offers 5-star luxury with ocean-view dining and a full-service spa.
The price is £230
includes taxes & fees
25 Apr - 26 Apr
Gayana Marine Resort

Bunga Raya Island Resort & Spa

Bunga Raya Island Resort & Spa
5.0 star property
Gaya Island
8.6 out of 10, Excellent, (186 reviews)
  • cleanliness
    Indulge in beachfront luxury at this boutique island resort offering a full-service spa, private beach cabanas, and oceanside dining.
The price is £221
includes taxes & fees
24 Apr - 25 Apr
Bunga Raya Island Resort & Spa

Gaya Island Resort

Gaya Island Resort
5.0 star property
Gaya Island
8.8 out of 10, Excellent, (448 reviews)
  • cleanliness
    Beachside luxury meets spa serenity at this island resort, offering pillowtop beds, deep soaking tubs, and 4 exquisite restaurants.
The price is £303
includes taxes & fees
19 Apr - 20 Apr
Gaya Island Resort

Shangri-La Tanjung Aru, Kota Kinabalu

Shangri-La Tanjung Aru, Kota Kinabalu
5.0 star property
Tanjung Aru
9.2 out of 10, Wonderful, (1,002 reviews)
  • cleanliness
    Luxurious beachfront retreat offers indulgent spa experiences, ocean-view dining, and two outdoor pools on a pristine private beach.
The price is £170
includes taxes & fees
21 Apr - 22 Apr
Shangri-La Tanjung Aru, Kota Kinabalu

The Magellan Sutera Resort

The Magellan Sutera Resort
5.0 star property
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
8.4 out of 10, Very good, (1,002 reviews)
  • cleanliness
    Seaside elegance meets resort indulgence at this beachfront luxury retreat with spa and golf.
The price is £99
includes taxes & fees
21 Apr - 22 Apr
The Magellan Sutera Resort

Hyatt Centric Kota Kinabalu

Hyatt Centric Kota Kinabalu
5.0 star property
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
9.2 out of 10, Wonderful, (204 reviews)
  • cleanliness
    Experience city centre luxury in Kota Kinabalu with exquisite dining, an outdoor pool showcasing sunset views, and impeccable service.
The price is £107
includes taxes & fees
9 Apr - 10 Apr
Hyatt Centric Kota Kinabalu

Hilton Kota Kinabalu

Hilton Kota Kinabalu
5.0 star property
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
9.2 out of 10, Wonderful, (1,000 reviews)
  • cleanliness
    Lavish urban sanctuary in Kota Kinabalu combines luxurious poolside relaxation, fine dining experiences, and exclusive concierge services.
The price is £79
includes taxes & fees
9 Apr - 10 Apr
Hilton Kota Kinabalu

Le Meridien Kota Kinabalu

Le Meridien Kota Kinabalu
5.0 star property
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (1,002 reviews)
  • cleanliness
    Indulgent waterfront retreat offers plush spa services and oceanside dining in Kota Kinabalu.
The price is £73
includes taxes & fees
24 Apr - 25 Apr
Le Meridien Kota Kinabalu

Kota Kinabalu Marriott Hotel

Kota Kinabalu Marriott Hotel
5.0 star property
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
8.6 out of 10, Excellent, (606 reviews)
  • cleanliness
    Seaside sophistication with stunning sunset views and ocean-view dining in city centre.
The price is £83
includes taxes & fees
11 Apr - 12 Apr
Kota Kinabalu Marriott Hotel

Hyatt Regency Kinabalu

Hyatt Regency Kinabalu
5.0 star property
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
8.4 out of 10, Very good, (1,000 reviews)
  • cleanliness
    Waterfront luxury meets dining excellence at this Kota Kinabalu retreat with panoramic sea views and attentive service.
The price is £73
includes taxes & fees
14 Apr - 15 Apr
Hyatt Regency Kinabalu
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Find out more about Kota Kinabalu

Kota Kinabaluand its attractions for luxury travelers

Kota Kinabalu, a vibrant coastal city in Sabah, offers luxury travellers a captivating blend of natural beauty and indulgent experiences. Begin your exploration at the breathtaking Tunku Abdul Rahman Park, where you can charter a private yacht to the pristine islands of Gaya or Manukan, perfect for snorkelling amidst colourful coral reefs. For an exhilarating adventure, head to Mount Kinabalu, where bespoke guided treks can be arranged, allowing you to scale Malaysia's highest peak while soaking in panoramic views of the surrounding rainforest. Indulge in a culinary journey at the renowned Fillet Steakhouse, where expertly crafted dishes featuring fresh seafood and local delicacies await. A visit to the Sabah Arts and Cultural Centre will immerse you in the rich local heritage, with opportunities to engage in exclusive workshops led by master artisans. For a luxurious stay, the waterfront area of Sutera Harbour is particularly appealing, offering opulent resorts with world-class amenities, including private beaches and rejuvenating spas. Here, you can unwind while enjoying spectacular sunset views over the South China Sea, ensuring your stay is both pampering and memorable.

Find the best luxury hotels and resorts in Kota Kinabalu

For those seeking an extravagant escape in Kota Kinabalu, these hotels provide a blend of opulence and comfort, ensuring an unforgettable stay.

Shangri-La Tanjung Aru, Kota Kinabalu

  • Why it's great for a luxury retreat: The Shangri-La Tanjung Aru is the epitome of luxury in Kota Kinabalu, an impressive guest review rating of 9.2. With its stunning sea views and exceptional amenities such as a private beach, 24-hour room service, and a lavish spa, travelers will find everything they need for an indulgent stay. Guests can also enjoy exclusive access to the Club Level Lounge, offering refreshments and a serene atmosphere for relaxation.
  • Other amenities: In addition to its luxurious offerings, the hotel features an outdoor pool, tennis courts, and an onsite restaurant with ocean views, perfect for romantic dining. Guests can enjoy sailing, golfing at nearby courses, or unwind with hydrotherapy treatments. Evening entertainment and concierge services enhance the experience, ensuring every detail is catered to during their stay. Enjoy premium bedding and bathrobes, adding to the comfort and elegance of each suite.
  • Neighborhood: Tanjung Aru
  • Nearby attractions: Tanjung Aru Perdana Park - 1.4 km, Sabah State Mosque - 3.8 km

Hilton Kota Kinabalu

  • Why it's great for a luxury retreat: The Hilton Kota Kinabalu is a luxurious retreat located in the heart of Downtown, receiving an impressive review rating of 9.0. Guests can indulge in high-end amenities such as a poolside bar, 24-hour room service, and designer toiletries, ensuring a comfortable and exclusive experience. The elegance of the hotel is complemented by its attentive concierge service, making it a top choice for travelers.
  • Other amenities: The hotel also offers a stunning outdoor pool, a fitness facility open 24 hours, and a restaurant with poolside dining options. Guests can enjoy deep soaking bathtubs in their rooms, providing a perfect way to unwind. With valet parking and airport transportation services, convenience is at the forefront of the guest experience. The Hilton ensures a seamless stay with its luxurious offerings and exceptional service.
  • Neighborhood: Downtown Kota Kinabalu
  • Nearby attractions: Gaya Street Sunday Market - 1.3 km, Kota Kinabalu Central Market - 1.2 km, Kompleks Asia City - 0.3 km

Le Meridien Kota Kinabalu

  • Why it's great for a luxury retreat: Le Meridien Kota Kinabalu stands out with its chic Art Deco design and a solid review rating of 8.8. This hotel caters to luxury seekers with its stunning sea views, premium bedding, and a dedicated concierge service. Guests can enjoy couples dining experiences and the comfort of bathrobes, enhancing the sense of indulgence throughout their stay.
  • Other amenities: The hotel features a beautiful outdoor pool, a spa offering a range of treatments, and a restaurant with ocean views that invites guests to savour exquisite cuisine. Fitness facilities are available for those looking to stay active, and the nearby waterfront offers opportunities for kayaking and motorboating. With a terrace and treatment rooms for massage, relaxation is always within reach at Le Meridien.
  • Neighborhood: Downtown Kota Kinabalu
  • Nearby attractions: KK Plaza - 0.5 km, Kota Kinabalu Central Market - 0.4 km, Kota Kinabalu Esplanade - 0.5 km

Grandis Hotel

  • Why it's great for a luxury retreat: The Grandis Hotel, rated 8.8, offers a sophisticated urban escape in Downtown Kota Kinabalu. This luxury hotel features a 24-hour room service, ensuring guests enjoy convenience at all hours. With its inviting poolside bar and a welcoming concierge, travelers experience a blend of comfort and attentive service during their stay.
  • Other amenities: Guests can take advantage of onsite shopping, while the outdoor pool offers a refreshing retreat. The hotel provides a rooftop terrace for stunning views and relaxation, along with airport transportation services for easy access to local attractions. With air conditioning and daily housekeeping, the Grandis Hotel maintains a high standard of comfort and cleanliness for its guests.
  • Neighborhood: Downtown Kota Kinabalu
  • Nearby attractions: Gaya Street Sunday Market - 1.1 km, Jesselton Quay - 0.3 km, Jesselton Point Ferry Terminal - 0.2 km

The Pacific Sutera Hotel

  • Why it's great for a luxury retreat: The Pacific Sutera Hotel is a luxurious resort that captures the essence of elegance, with a review rating of 8.4. The hotel features an array of high-end amenities, including a private beach, golf course, and multiple dining options with stunning sea views. Guests will appreciate the 24-hour room service and the resort’s concierge, who are dedicated to enhancing the guest experience.
  • Other amenities: Additional offerings at the hotel include a swim-up bar, tennis courts, and a full-service spa for ultimate relaxation. The outdoor pool is complemented by sun loungers, while onsite shopping adds convenience to the luxurious experience. Guests can also enjoy various water sports, ensuring an adventurous stay amidst the luxury. The Pacific Sutera Hotel truly embodies a lavish escape set in a stunning location.
  • Neighborhood: Downtown Kota Kinabalu
  • Nearby attractions: Sabah State Mosque - 1.4 km, Sutera Harbour - 0.4 km, Imago Shopping Mall - 1.5 km

Top Kota Kinabalu Hotel Reviews

Frequently asked questions

What are the top-rated luxury hotels in Kota Kinabalu?
Among the top-rated luxury hotels in Kota Kinabalu, the Shangri-La Tanjung Aru, Kota Kinabalu, Le Meridien Kota Kinabalu, and Hilton Kota Kinabalu are consistently celebrated for their exceptional quality.

The 5-star Shangri-La Tanjung Aru, Kota Kinabalu, with a 9.2 rating, offers a private beach and boasts a golf clubhouse and tennis facilities. Customers frequently praise the excellent and attentive staff, good facilities, and beautiful pool.

Le Meridien Kota Kinabalu, a 5-star hotel with an 8.8 rating, is known for its Art Deco design and offers sea views and mountain views from its rooms. Reviews highlight the excellent and helpful staff, amazing customer service, and comfortable, clean rooms.

The 5-star Hilton Kota Kinabalu, holding a 9.2 rating, provides amenities such as a poolside restaurant and a deep soaking bathtub in its rooms. Guests often mention the good breakfast, well-equipped gym, and nice pool.
Which area of Kota Kinabalu is best to stay in for luxury hotels?
For luxury hotels in Kota Kinabalu, the best areas to stay are the waterfront hotels along Tun Fuad Stephens Road and the resorts slightly outside the city centre, particularly in areas offering private beach access.

The hotels along Tun Fuad Stephens Road offer direct access to the waterfront promenade and are within easy walking distance of Suria Sabah Shopping Mall and Jesselton Point Ferry Terminal. This central location means you're close to many dining options and can easily organise island hopping trips. These hotels often provide excellent sea views and convenient access to city amenities.

For couples seeking a more secluded and indulgent experience, the luxury resorts located a short drive from the city centre are an excellent choice. These resorts typically boast extensive grounds, private beaches, multiple swimming pools, and a range of high-end facilities, including spas and fine dining restaurants. They offer a tranquil escape while still being close enough for day trips into the city or to nearby attractions like the Lok Kawi Wildlife Park.
How much does a luxury hotel in Kota Kinabalu cost?
Luxury hotel prices in Kota Kinabalu vary, but you can find a great deal from £73 on Expedia. To find the best prices on luxury stays, be flexible with your dates—typically, off-peak and mid-week stays are cheaper. Sort your search results by "Price: low to high" to see our lowest rates.
Which luxury hotels in Kota Kinabalu are good for families?
For families seeking luxury accommodation in Kota Kinabalu, Shangri-La Tanjung Aru, The Magellan Sutera Resort, and The Pacific Sutera Hotel are excellent choices.

The 5-star Shangri-La Tanjung Aru, with a 9.2 rating, is a resort structure featuring a private beach and various family-friendly amenities such as a golf clubhouse and sailing onsite. Guests frequently praise the excellent, attentive staff, beautiful pool, and great food.

The Magellan Sutera Resort, a 5-star property with an 8.4 rating, offers a resort structure with a private beach and an onsite golf course, providing ample activities for all ages.

Also a 5-star resort with an 8.4 rating, The Pacific Sutera Hotel provides a private beach, an onsite golf course, and a swim-up bar, ensuring entertainment and relaxation for families.
What are the best luxury hotels in Kota Kinabalu with a pool?
For luxury hotels in Kota Kinabalu offering excellent pool facilities, consider the Shangri-La Tanjung Aru, Kota Kinabalu, Le Meridien Kota Kinabalu, and Hilton Kota Kinabalu.

The 5-star Shangri-La Tanjung Aru, Kota Kinabalu, with a 9.2 rating, is a resort-style property with both an outdoor pool and a dedicated children's pool. Customers frequently praise the beautiful pool area, alongside the excellent and attentive staff and great food.

Le Meridien Kota Kinabalu, a 5-star hotel rated 8.8, features an outdoor pool. Guests consistently highlight the excellent and helpful staff, amazing customer service, and comfortable, clean rooms.

The 5-star Hilton Kota Kinabalu, rated 9.2, offers an outdoor pool. Reviewers often mention the pool as a nice feature, alongside a good gym and breakfast.
Which luxury hotels in Kota Kinabalu are good for couples?
For couples seeking luxury accommodation in Kota Kinabalu, the Shangri-La Tanjung Aru, Kota Kinabalu, and Le Meridien Kota Kinabalu are exceptional choices.

The 5-star Shangri-La Tanjung Aru, Kota Kinabalu, with a 9.2 rating, is a resort structure offering a private beach location and suites, many with sea views. Reviewers consistently praise the excellent and attentive staff, the beautiful pool, and the quality of the food. Couples can also enjoy specific amenities such as Champagne service and couples dining.

Le Meridien Kota Kinabalu, a 5-star hotel rated 8.8, features an Art Deco design and offers rooms with rainfall showerheads and designer toiletries. Customers frequently highlight the excellent and helpful staff, the amazing customer service, and the comfortable, clean rooms. Many rooms also offer sea or mountain views.
Are there any top luxury hotels near Suria Sabah Shopping Mall?
For top luxury hotels near Suria Sabah Shopping Mall, consider the Hilton Kota Kinabalu, Le Meridien Kota Kinabalu, and the Kota Kinabalu Marriott Hotel.

The 5-star Hilton Kota Kinabalu, with a 9.2 rating, offers 24-hour room service, a poolside bar, and deep soaking bathtubs with designer toiletries. Guests frequently praise its breakfast and pool facilities.

Le Meridien Kota Kinabalu, a 5-star hotel with an 8.8 rating, features an Art Deco design and amenities such as rainfall showerheads, executive rooms, and club level access with refreshments. Many rooms also offer sea or mountain views, and customer feedback consistently praises the excellent and helpful staff.

The 5-star Kota Kinabalu Marriott Hotel, rated 8.6, provides 24-hour room service, premium bedding, and a restaurant with ocean views. Its location is particularly convenient, with a shopping mall directly on-site.
Which luxury hotels in Kota Kinabalu are near Kota Kinabalu (BKI-Kota Kinabalu Intl.)?
For luxury hotels in Kota Kinabalu near Kota Kinabalu International Airport (BKI), Shangri-La Tanjung Aru, Kota Kinabalu, and Pan Borneo Hotel Kota Kinabalu are excellent choices.

The 5-star Shangri-La Tanjung Aru, Kota Kinabalu, with a 9.2 rating, is located just 2.2 miles from the airport. Guests frequently praise the excellent and attentive staff, the beautiful pool, and the great food. It also offers private beach access and suites with sea or mountain views.

The 4-star Pan Borneo Hotel Kota Kinabalu, rated 8.0, is situated 2.3 miles from the airport. Reviewers often highlight the clean rooms and the lovely staff. The hotel features an executive lounge and rooms with sea views.
What luxury activities and experiences are there in Kota Kinabalu?
Kota Kinabalu offers a variety of luxury activities and experiences, from private island getaways to bespoke cultural tours.

For those seeking an exclusive island escape, consider a private yacht charter to one of the pristine islands within Tunku Abdul Rahman Park, such as Gaya Island or Manukan Island. You can enjoy snorkelling or diving in crystal-clear waters, followed by a gourmet picnic prepared by your crew on a secluded beach. Several high-end resorts on Gaya Island also offer opulent villas with private plunge pools and stunning sea views, superb for a tranquil retreat.

Foodies can indulge in bespoke culinary experiences, including private cooking classes focusing on Sabahan cuisine or fine dining at establishments offering fresh seafood with panoramic sunset views over the South China Sea. Many luxury hotels can arrange exclusive dining experiences, perhaps with a personal chef or in a unique setting like a rooftop terrace.

For a unique cultural immersion, arrange a private tour to a local longhouse in the interior of Sabah. These tours can be tailored to include traditional performances, craft workshops, and opportunities to learn about indigenous cultures in a more intimate setting, often culminating in an authentic local meal.
How can I save on a luxury hotel in Kota Kinabalu with Expedia?
There are plenty of ways to save on a luxury hotel in Kota Kinabalu. Join One Key™, our free travel rewards programme, to unlock Member Prices across a range of hotels. Typically, booking in advance will help you save on hotel bookings. If you're feeling spontaneous, be sure to check for last-minute deals.
Is it cheaper to book a luxury Kota Kinabalu hotel and flights as a package?
Booking a hotel and flight package on Expedia can be cheaper than booking flights and hotels separately. Bundling can lead to significant savings, especially for international travel or when booking well in advance. However, savings vary depending on factors like destination, travel dates, and availability, so it's wise to compare options. With access to over 300,000 hotels worldwide, Expedia makes it easy to build the perfect travel package.
Can I cancel my luxury hotel reservation on Expedia?
Many Expedia hotel reservations are refundable, provided that you cancel before the hotel's cancellation deadline. This is often within 24-48 hours of your scheduled arrival. Be sure to check your booking confirmation for the exact cancellation policy. For maximum flexibility, use Expedia's "Fully refundable property" filter during your search to find the right luxury hotel in Kota Kinabalu for you.

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